General Info

The only Lodge to Lodge Horseback Riding Trip to Machu Picchu in Peru. A unique opportunity to experience ancient history in the Land of the Incas, culture, exotic flora and fauna, culinary surprises and new friends.

After a day’s ride, enjoy high comfort at mountain lodges located in strategic locations throughout the Salkantay Trail. Mountain Lodges of Peru's lodges made "Travel & Leisure" magazine's list of the "World's Most Remote Hotels."

Ride horses on the “Salkantay Route,” named among the 25 best Treks in the World by National Geographic Adventure Travel Magazine, to four wonderful mountain lodges in the Cordillera Vilcabamba, a spectacular Andean Mountain Range that cradles the famed Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, a pre-Columbian 15th-century Inca site that is often referred to as "The Lost City of the Incas." This is the trip of a lifetime and one that will certainly earn you bragging rights!

As you ride through nine different biozones, changing altitudes and varied terrain, marvel at the exquisite beauty of the Salkantay Peak, Salkantay Glacier and Humantay Glacier Lake. Ride amid snow capped mountains, part of the Peruvian Andes, and crystal clear rivers to reach a 15,000 foot mountain pass and descend into a misty jungle. Experience the culture and customs of local Andean families who maintain age-old traditions, while indulging in the comfort of enchanted mountain lodges on these riding holidays. Be inspired by the majesty of your surroundings and the knowledge that you are following in the footsteps of the Incas.

The Salkantay Lodge & Adventure Resort offers an outdoor hot tub, cozy reading rooms, a bar / lounge (with Pisco Sour glasses and all!) and 12 well-appointed private double (or twin) rooms with private bathrooms and hot showers. Distract yourself in our outdoor hot tubs with incredible views. Relax in lodge lounges and indulge in exquisite Andean Gourmet Cuisine. For a good night’s sleep, enjoy your own private heated room and beds with 400 count thread sheets and goose feather down comforters. The enchanting Valley of Soraypampa is also the starting point of the “other” route to Machu Picchu – one that is much less traveled but, by many accounts, more scenic and exclusive than the famous “Inca Trail”. Traveling on the Machu Picchu Lodge to Lodge experience, riders spend one night each at three Rider’s Lodges located at strategic points along the route: Huayraccmachay, Collpapampa and Lucmabamba. These Rider’s Lodges are smaller in size (only 6 guest rooms per lodge), but each one of them offers the same amenities as the base lodge. On the last day of your trip, you will have the guided visit to the Machu Picchu citadel and gain in depth knowledge about this Wonder of the World.

One guide is provided for up to 7 riders in a group for this riding vacation. Groups of 8 to 14 riders will have a guide and an assistant guide traveling with them. The cooks and horsemen know the area well and are available to assist the guides at all times. Non-riding companions are welcome on this trip and may hike and be transported from lodge to lodge by vehicle while their companion rides horses.

This trip is 7 days/6 nights with an option to add 2 additional days. There is moderate to strenuous riding at high elevations on steep and rocky trails and a section of stone paved Inca paths. Riding entails traversing through 12 different eco-zones, which involves changing weather conditions. The main elevations in the area are between 12,000 feet and 8,000 feet. On day three there is a pass of 15,500,' but one is up there for only one hour or so, as the descent on the other side leads to a lodge at 12,000 feet.

Awards & Accolades

This outfitter's previous treks have garnered high praise!
- National Geographic Traveler Magazine’s “50 Tours of a Lifetime” in 2009
- National Geographic Adventure Magazine’s “25 Best New Trips” in 2008
- Outside’s GO “12 Best trips” in 2008
- Grand Prize in the renown competition TO DO! – Contest for Socially Responsible Tourism

Member of
ATTA (Adventure Travel Trade Association)
LATA in the UK
Several Peruvian tourism organizations.

Packing

Packing Tips - Machu Picchu Trek

Adjustable riding helmets are available at the first stable. It is not mandatory but we highly recommend the use of a helmet. There is no need to request them ahead of time.

Laundry facilities are available.

Weather in the region is extremely variable and packing for a variety of conditions is recommended. Riders will pass through 9 bio-zones ranging from high altitude alpine conditions to high jungle. Please visit Equitrekking Travel's packing list for additional suggestions.

These items are essential to ensure adventure travelers’ comfort and safety:

a day pack with everything needed for the day's ride.

Note: Mules and porters carrying the luggage will not walk with the group and your luggage will meet you at each lodge.

comfortable riding boots

rain gear (ponchos or full rain gear)

gloves

lightweight riding pants or short (pants recommended)

breathable lightweight tops

comfortable shoes/flip-flops

cold-weather jacket

long-sleeve fleece/sweater

a wool hat

a sports hat or sombrero style outdoor hat

a headlight

sunglasses'

riding socks

sunscreen and insect repellent

a bathing suit

casual mountain wear from evenings

photo/video cameras and chargers

re-fillable water bottles

lightweight small binoculars

Sleeping bags are not required as the lodges provide ample bedding. A limited number of hair-dryers are available at each lodge, due to limitations in energy supply and environmental concerns. At the 1st lodge, all guests are provided with an “amenity kit” that includes bath gel, shampoo, conditioner, mositurizing cream and a shower cap. This amenity kit will be given to guests at the first lodge and guests should pack the kit in their luggage, as there are no additional kits once you leave the first lodge.

Baggage Specifications

Please, no hard suitcases or wheeled bags. Soft duffel bags and/or backpacks (“soft” luggage) are recommended.
• We provide a limited amount of hair-dryers at each lodge, due to limited energy supply and environ- mental concerns.
• Shampoo, conditioners and bath gel are provided at each lodge.
• Bathrooms are equipped with drying lines.
• Any additional clothing and luggage that you will not be needing on the trek can be stored at your hotel in Cusco.
• If you do not have an appropriate sized duffel bag, we can provide a duffel bag on loan at the pre-trek briefing (the night before departure from Cusco). Please return it to your trip leader after the trek.
• Though we do not establish a weight limit for luggage or charge for excess baggage, we inform guests that luggage is mainly transported by mules and/or por- ters along the trail. We kindly ask that you consider restricting the weight of your luggage on the trail up to10Kg/22Lbs.

About the Horses

The horses used for this Machu Picchu trek are a type of Quarter Horse specially trained for high altitudes and rugged terrain and picked from a pre-selected pool according to their level of fitness at the time. Extra horses are brought along on each trip. Guests can choose from two different types of saddles, either a Uruguayan endurance saddle which is silmiar to an English saddle made from leather or an American endurance saddle which is similiar to a Western synthetic saddle. The horses are kept and cared for in a special ranch “Coronilla” located in the outskirts of Cusco near the town of Mollepata, right where the trail head begins. In this facility, there are approximately 30 horses so that travelers can choose a good match.

You should be an intermediate to advanced rider as the riding is strenuous on the Salkantay trek. The use of safety equipment such as helmets and back protectors on this ride are strongly recommended. Helmets, chaps and back protectors can be rented at the beginning of the ride, subject to availability.

Activities/Events

The Riding Route
The riding route for the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu with Mountain Lodges of Peru starts at Soraypampa, the site of the Salkantay Lodge & Adventure Resort. The first day's ride is a high pass to Abra Salkantay and on to Huayraccmachay and the site of Wayra Lodge. Continue to Collpapampa, where the Colpa Lodge is located and finally Lucmabamba and the Lucma Lodge before ending the journey at the hydroelectric train station to Aguas Calientes.

The Salkantay Trail is an ancient Inca trail that takes travelers up to Machu Picchu Sanctuary. Used in ancient times as a trading route, this unique trail takes travelers up the Salkantay Pass to 15,000 feet, providing a “close – up” view of the Salkantay Peak, an important peak in Inca religion. Due to the varied nature of the trail, travelers will horseback ride through fifteen different biozones, viewing unique species of flora and fauna. This trail is rich in culture and tradition. Travelers will be able to immerse themselves in the traditions of the surrounding communities and get to know their way of life and customs.

This trip is 7 days/6 nights with an option to add 2 additional days. There is moderate to strenuous riding at elevations of 6,600-15,000 feet (2,000-4,600m) on steep and rocky trails and a section of stone paved Inca paths. Riding entails traversing through 12 different eco-zones, which involves changing weather conditions. The 3rd day of the journey is the most challenging with an elevation gain of 3,000 feet in a span of 3 miles to reach a maximum altitude of 15,000 feet.

Massage Services
Professional massage services are available at the Salkantay Lodge & Adventure Resort from March-December of every season. Massage services at the Wayra, Colpa and Lucma lodges are subject to availability, and it is suggested to inquire prior to departure. The cost for a massage service is US $65.00 per 60 minute session.

Accommodations/Food

Descriptions of the Lodges
Each mountain lodge has 6 rooms all independently heated and with their own private bathroom with a hot shower. Twin or king beds available with 400 thread sheet count and goose feather down comforters. The lodges include lounges for relaxing after a day on the trail, a dining room and in 3 of the 4 lodges, there's an outdoor hot tub. Wireless internet is available in all lodges. Laundry facilities are available.

Communication
Satellite telephones are available at each lodge. These work with phone cards, which can be purchased on location as well. Internet is also available at all lodges. Due to the satellite-based nature of the system, reception may not be guaranteed in cases of continuous or extreme weather conditions. International calls can be placed and received. However, it is asked that you refrain from receiving incoming calls unless it's an emergency, as a sign of respect and courtesy for other guests. As a reference, a US $10 phone card provides about 10 minutes to the US/Canada and 5 minutes to Europe. Though it is a goal to try and maintain as pure and natural an experience as possible, it is expected that the internet might become a necessary service for some guests. Thus, rural wi-fi internet service is provided at all 4 lodges. Use of the internet service is limited within the guest rooms and is prohibited in the common areas of each lodge.

Food
High quality Andean Energetic Cuisine is prepared by chefs that accompany every group through the whole trip. This type of cuisine will provide all the necessary energy that every hiker needs to complete each day’s activities. Meals may include fresh fish courses, salads and pasta, indicative of Peruvian gastronomy and with touches of Andean cuisine. This trip includes three meals per day (breakfast buffet, lunch and dinner).

A vegetarian menu is available.Please let us know about any special dietary restrictions in advance so that everything is prepared. Alcohol is not included in the rate, but there is a wine menu and other alcoholic beverages available for purchase. Travelers are not allowed to bring alcohol on this trip.

The Ideal Traveler

With strenuous riding at elevations of 6,600-15,000 feet (2,00-4,600m) on steep and rocky trails, this trip is moderate to challenging and covers approximately 32 mlies on uneven, rocky terrain. Prior hiking experience is recommended and riders should be intermediate to advanced. The minimum age to join this trip is 12 years old.

Machu Picchu Lodge to Lodge

Departures & Rates
Below are set departure dates. If you have a party of 4 or more, we can create a custom date for you!

Trip Rates Include:
All services and transportation (vehicles and trains) from pick up in Cusco on Day 1 to drop off in Cusco on Day 7.
6 nights lodging (5 nights in MLP lodges, 1 night in Aguas Calientes in a 4-star hotel).
All meals except breakfast on Day 1 and dinner on Day 7.
Service of a bilingual guide (English/Spanish) from Day 1 to Day 7 (other languages available at additional cost).
Transportation of personal belongings on the trek by pack horses/mules and/or porters.
Guided visit of Machu Picchu Sanctuary (includes entrance, transportation to and from the site and Huayna Picchu Permits).
Wireless Internet access (Wi-Fi) at all lodges and hotels.
US$50 gratuities for service staff (MLP lodge staff, mule drivers and route chefs), excluding guides.
Water, tea, coffee, soft drinks and fresh fruit juices are free of charge at the MLP Lodges. Only filtered water and tea are available free of charge at the hotel in Aguas Calientes.

Not Included:
Massage & Spa Services.
Laundry Service.
Optional Activities: Chakana Inca Cross Excursion (for the Trekking Program only), Canopy Zipline, Horseback Riding (For the Trekking program only, subject to change).
Alcoholic beverages.
Bottled water and sports drinks are not included. In an effort to reduce plastic waste on the trail and at the lodges we encourage guests to use refillable water bottles. For this purpose we provide and ample supply of the highest - quality filtered water, available at multiple water stations at the lodges.
Local taxes (18% IGV) on meals and lodging applicable to Peruvians, foreign residents in Peru and tourists traveling in Peru for 60+ days.

Riding Ability:
Physically strenuous trail for advanced beginners to advanced riding levels, which can include the walk, trot, canter, and gallop if you wish. There is no need to canter or gallop, as the distances between lodges are hiking distances. Beginners with some riding experience are welcome. Guests are encouraged to undergo preparation for the trip with regular cardio-vascular exercise and healthy eating prior to the trip. The main elevations in the area are between 12,000 feet and 8,000 feet. On day three there is a pass of 15,500,' but one is up there for only one hour or so, as the descent on the other side leads to a lodge at 12,000 feet.

Description:
Travel the “Salkantay Route” and ride to four mountain lodges in the Cordillera Vilcabamba, a spectacular Andean mountain range which cradles the famed Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. This outfiter has a main guide for a group up to 7 guests. For groups of 8 or more, you will travel with a main guide and an assistant guide. A pre-ride breifing and meet and greet in Cusco will be held the night before departure.The type of terrain varies from open roads, some steep ascending trails and open fields.

Accommodation:
6 nights lodging (5 nights in Machu Picchu Lodges and 1 night in Aguas Calientes in a 4* hotel). It is recommended that guests spend at least 2 nights in Cusco prior to departure. This helps with acclimatization to the altitude and also provides an opportunity to explore the beautiful city of Cusco.

At check-in at the 1st lodge, you will be asked to open a voucher on your credit card for potential extras during the trip like alcoholic beverages, clothing/souvenirs and others. At the 4th lodge you will need to settle your bill and can do so by charging the credit card previously presented or by paying in cash. If paying in cash, please take note that only US$ 5, US$ 10, US$ 20, and US$ 50 dollar bills are accepted; US $1, US $100 or coins is not accepted. Peruvian currency is accepted. If paying with a credit card, please note you will not be able to present a new credit card when settling the bill.

Note: On the evening before this day there will be a briefing with your guide in Cusco.

After an early breakfast, we are picked up starting at 7:00 am at your Cusco hotel by a MLP guide and vehicle. En route we take a short break to visit the Inca ruins of Tarawasi near the town of Limatambo (approx. 1.5 hrs from Cusco). After leaving Limatambo, we pass through the mountain village of Mollepata where we stop for a short cof- fee break before ascending a winding mountain road to Coronilla Ranch.

Here, after a short period of familiarization with the equestrian team and the horses, we begin our ride to Soraypampa. This is a good opportunity for everyone to acclimate while enjoying a beautiful 3-4 hour ride. Salkantay Lodge takes its name from the majestic peak at the head of the valley—Mt. Salkantay, the second most sacred peak in Inca mythology and, at 6,270m (20,600 ft), the highest in the region. After a warm welcome by our friendly staff, we are shown to our rooms and have time to freshen-up, before tea and cookies. The trip leader will hold a briefing by the fireplace, followed by aperitifs and dinner.

Day 2 Ride to Humantay Lake and the Chakana
Ride to Humantay Lake and the Chakana Overnight at Salkantay Lodge at 3,869 m/12,690 ft

Today’s excursion takes us first to Humantay Lake, fed by glaciers far above on the slopes of the impressive Mt. Humantay. Our 1-hour horseback ride there is followed by a short 20-minute walk, which is necessary in order to reach the lake, but the view is well worth it and those brave enough can go for a swim! After a short snack break we hike back down to where we left the horses, and from where we begin a 30-minute ride to our next dismount spot: the gateway to the “Chakana” (the mystical Cross of the Incas, located on a view point high above Soraypampa). From here, we begin a one-hour excursion on foot to our destination, the actual “Chakana”. This excursion allows guests to enjoy the best views of the Soray- pampa Valley, Mt. Salkantay and Mt. Humantay, and is truly one of the high points of our journey...which should not be missed! A mystical offering to Mother Earth (or “Pachamama”) at the Chakana, performed by a local Shaman, in full view of the awe-inspiring Mt. Salkantay, tops off this unique experience.

We return to the lodge for lunch with your afternoon at leisure, after which you may choose to trade the glacial swim for a relaxing soak in our outdoor jacuzzi. Additionally there is the option of riding out again for a couple of hours in the surrounding area. In the evening, the guide briefs us on gear and the itinerary for the following day. All meals are served at the Lodge.

Today we continue our journey towards Machu Picchu, riding up the Rio Blanco valley and circling Humantay Peak across from Salkantay Peak. The highest point of the ride is the Salkantay Pass at 4,638 meters (15,213 ft). At the pass we stop to take in views of snow-capped peaks of the Vilca- bamba Range in every direction, with the glaciated south face of Salkantay towering above us. We will keep our eyes out for Andean condors, often visible in this area. From the pass we de- scend towards the Wayra Lodge, (“Wayra”: wind; from the name of the location “Wayrac- machay”: ‘the cave where the wind lives’) our destination for the evening. A hot lunch is taken en route; dinner and overnight at the Lodge.

Day 4 Descending into the Cloud Forest
Overnight at Colpa Lodge at 2,870 m/9,414 ft

On this day we enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Wayra Lodge, and then we continue down- hill above the Salkantay River, descending into the cloud forest, through increasingly verdant scenery. We can feel the warm air rising from the jungle, accompanied by col- orful butterflies and striking orchids. Upon arrival at Colpa Lodge we are greeted with a Pachamanca, a traditional festive Peruvian meal cooked by layering meat and veg- etables with hot stones. Everything is then covered with hot stones, plantain leaves, high Andean grass and local herbs and the contents are baked in this underground oven. Colpa Lodge is located on an open plateau at the confluence of three rivers. The outdoor jacuzzi has panoramic views of lush green mountains. We spend the after- noon relaxing or exploring the nearby orchid trail. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

Riding Time: Approximately 4 hours
Ride Time & Terrain: Walk or trot, on narrow trails
Non-Rider Activity: Free day in Ollantaytambo or hiking along the trail

Day 5 Following the Santa Teresa River Valley
Overnight at Lucma Lodge at 2,135 m/7,003 ft

Today we ride along the Santa Teresa river valley, through more populated rural areas. We pass through banana, passion fruit, avocado orchards and coffee plantations. The coffee grown here is said to be one of the best organic coffees in the world. Our ride takes us to the beginning of the “Llactapata Inca Trail”, which is where we say goodbye to our horses and equestrian staff. A short 30-minute walk through an avocado orchard brings us to Lucma Lodge. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

Riding Time: Approximately 5 hours
Ride and Terrain: Walk, trot, and canter on steep trails and some open roads
Non-rider activity: Transfer by train and vehicle to Lucma Lodge, hiking along trail, or Canopy Zip Line Tour (please see page 9 for detailed information)

Day 6 First Views of Machu Picchu from Llactapata Pass
Overnight in Aguas Calientes at 1,900 m/6,232 ft

After a hearty breakfast, we tackle the last day of our trek. We head uphill for 2-3 hours towards Llactapata Pass (2,736 m/8,974ft), where we come upon a distant but spec- tacular view of Machu Picchu Sanctuary from the southeast, a view few travelers ever get a chance to admire. We take a short break to explore the Llactapata Ruins, which have recently been restored. Lunch is served at a scenic viewpoint, looking out to Ma- chu Picchu. After which we begin our final descent to the Aobamba River through lush bamboo forests, orchards and coffee plantations. We then board a train for a scenic ride (approx. 1 hour) to Aguas Calientes, the town of Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, we check into an award-wining hotel for a celebration dinner with our guide and one last briefing!

Note - Those who prefer not to hike can go to the train station by van after a leisurely morning including breakfast and lunch at the lodge. They will meet the rest of the group at the train station for the ride to Aguas Calientes together. (The guide confirms your preferences the night before.)

After a very early buffet breakfast at the hotel, we make our way to the bus station for the ride up to Machu Picchu Sanctuary (30 min). Our trip leader will give an intro- ductory 2 hour guided tour of the ruins, after which we have the option of climbing the steep staircase of Huayna Picchu, a steep and vertically quite challenging hike that takes about 2 hours which affords great views of Machu Picchu. Afterwards, we meet up with our guide again and return by bus to Aguas Calientes for a late lunch and to catch our train. The ride from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo takes about 11⁄2 hours, and then a private vehicle will drive us back to Cusco (an additional 11⁄2 hour). Upon arrival in Cusco (approximately 7 or 8 p.m.), we are dropped off at your hotel.

* This itinerary is flexible and subject to change based on the trip guide's discretion, the weather or other factors.

Spend an Extra Day at Machu Picchu
Even though you have enough time to see the core of Machu Picchu Sanctuary during the regular guided tour, most of our guests realize that they would have liked to stay a little longer since there is so much to explore! Let us know at time of reservation if you would like to add this optional day. By spending an extra day at Machu Picchu, you will be able to...
• Make the best of your time visiting a World Heri- tage Site situated on a spectacular mountain ridge, overlooking the confluence of three rivers.
• Explore areas of the site that are less visited by most travelers, such as climbing Machu Picchu Moun- tain (special permit to be purchased in advance) or hiking to the Inca Bridge or the Sun Gate.
• Visit the town of Aguas Calientes and shop the local craft markets.
• Treat yourself to a relaxing end to your vacation and ful- ly enjoy the magnificent gardens, top-of-the-line spa, and hospitality of the unique Inkaterra Pueblo Hotel.

Optional Activities During Trip
Canopy Zip Line Tour On Day 5 of the trekking itinerary.
Looking for more adventure? Join our exclusive half-day excursion on an exciting and scenic canopy zip line tour. This optional activity includes vehicle transfer, a 21⁄2 hour guided canopy zip line tour, all necessary safety equip- ment, training, and lunch.

Please let our Travel Specialist know if you would like to book this activity in advance (limited spaces available). If you are unsure at this time, you can book the excursion anytime until the afternoon on Day 4 of the itinerary (just let your trip leader know). This optional activity will run with a minimum of 2 guests.

Mandatory Insurance:
The Salkantay Journey to Machu Picchu is an Adventure Travel Activity which takes place in remote locations and at certain times at high altitudes. As such, it contains a certain level of risk. In order to ensure a safe experience for every guest, we kindly request that every guest presents valid proof of insurance coverage as a minimum for Medical Emergency Treatment and Evacuation. Please note that some insurance policies exclude Adventure Travel Activities or similar from the coverage, so please be careful when assessing and/or purchasing your insurance policy and please make sure that the insurance policy includes Adventure Travel Activities or similar.

Please consult with your Travel Specialist for more details.

Cusco
We recommend that our guests spend at least 2 nights in Cusco prior to departure. This helps with acclimatization to the altitude and also provides an opportunity to explore the beautiful city of Cusco.

Travelers can feel the effects of higher altitudes as low as 6000 feet (2000 meters) above sea level. They differ in their tolerance for high altitude conditions and how their bodies react to the changes in air pressure and oxygen level. Therefore we encourage our guests to undergo appropriate preparation by regular cardio-vascular exercise, even if conduct- ed at low elevation, and to adopt a healthy, balanced diet prior to the trip.

Beginner to Advanced Novice Riders: Allow 4 weeks of 3 1-hour lessons per week to prepare. Week 1 should include lessons on basic control of your horse both on the ground and in the saddle. Week 2 should include lessons on body positioning to balance and control your horse and allow you to ride for 3 to 5 hours in comfort. Week 3 should include trail riding experience with a small group of horses. Trail etiquette and hand signals should be practiced. Week 4 should include lessons on riding along moderately steep, narrow trails, in hilly terrain.

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Traveler Reviews

In the News

Travel & Leisure "The World's Most Remote Hotelss: Hard to Reach Spots are Well Worth the Schlep"

"Of course, small lodges and inns dot many a lonely landscape. But our list offers places that, though remote, still provide luxurious creature comforts. The four Peruvian mountain lodges along the Salkantay Trail to Machu Picchu, for example, are located four to eight miles from each other, and three of them can only be reached by foot or on horseback. (It took 7,000 mule trips to transport the building materials.) Yet each one offers eiderdown comforters, hot showers from fresh-water springs, Jacuzzis, fireplaces, Wi-Fi service, and a wine list. "You feel the remoteness of the glaciers and authentic hamlets and villages, but you’re not roughing it," says Enrique Umbert, Sr., founder and president of Mountain Lodges of Peru...

Some lodges have views of small neighboring villages, while others look over coffee and banana plantations—but all have direct vistas of Salkantay Peak, one of the most important mountains in Inca mythology. Guests also find surprising touches in this remote region, like hot tubs, down bedding, fireplaces, and gourmet meals paired with wines."

"The social responsibility component of MLP is handled by a non-profit organization called “Yanapana” (“Help” in Quechua language; www.yanapana.org) which serves the people who live in the region. Members of the local communities have been trained to work in the lodges; they are given micro loans and technical assistance to improve the quality and sale of regional products such as preserves, weavings and vegetables. Medical care and education support for more than 1,700 children in the region is provided as well."

San Diego News Network "New way to Machu Picchu Adds Luxury"

"The four lodges where we stayed — Salkantay, Wayra, Colpa and Lucma — are the brainchild of Enrique Umbert Sr., a 59-year-old Peruvian commodities trader who in 2002 had a vision of creating trekking routes where hikers could experience the outdoors by day then spend the nights in comfortable accommodations.

Each of the lodges was constructed in only 10 months; it required an estimated 7,500 mule trips to transport the building supplies – and what the mules couldn’t carry went onto the backs of local Andean men."

-- by Dan Gindling

Outside Magazine "A New Shining Path"

"While thousands of trekkers swarm the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu's Salcantay Route offers better views, deluxe digs, and splendid isolation... Mountain Lodges of Peru, an upscale lodge-to-lodge trek along the Salcantay Route, which is more than 500 years old, begins just two hours west of Cuzco by car, and rises to within an echo of some of the tallest and most rugged peaks in South America. In addition to nonexistent crowds and righteous views, the Salcantay also gets you high: From Soraypampa, at nearly 12,000 feet, it crests a 15,000-foot glacier-fringed pass, climbing so much that you actually have to descend—the trail plunges 7,000 feet, passing the Río Santa Teresa along the way—to reach the base of Machu Picchu, at 7,710 feet. The Inca Trail, on the other hand, maxes out just under 14,000 feet and spends much of the time meandering through densely forested foothills with only scattershot views of the snow-covered Andes."

-- by Michael Behar

Reading List

The Incas, People of the Sun by Carmen Bernard and Paul Bahn

A pocket-size encyclopedia in the acclaimed "Discoveries" series, this jewel of a book features hundreds of archival drawings and photographs, a chronology and long excerpts from the journals of early explorers. It's a guide to the ancient monuments, daily life of the Incas and history of exploration.

Peru (Eyewitness Travel Guide)

Let this lavishly illustrated guide whet your appetite and show you where to start looking for the real Peru - with cutaways and floor plans of all the major sites, and special features on the ancient Caral and the Colonial splendor of the Spanish conquistadors.

Equitrekking Coffee Table Companion Book & DVD

Equitrekking Travel Adventures on Horseback by Darley Newman with Photographs by Chip Ward available at Amazon.com
This companion to the PBS TV series, Equitrekking, proves that the world's most beautiful views are often best seen from atop a horse. This gorgeous book features dozens of scenic rides in the U.S. and around the globe. Denver Post review: For horse folk and dreamers, as well as fans of the show, it's a beautiful trip through stunning equestrian-friendly possibilities. "

Get off the beaten path to see some of the world's most beautiful horses and classic riding destinations with host and equestrian travel expert Darley Newman with Emmy Award-winning Equitrekking, the horseback riding travel series on PBS.

Animals in Translation: Using the Mysteries of Autism to Decode Animal Behavior (Paperback) by Temple Grandin
Philosophers and scientists have long wondered what goes on in the minds of animals, and this fascinating study gives a wealth of illuminating insights into that mystery. ---Publishers Weekly

The Horse: A Miscellany of Equine Knowledge (Hardcover) by Julie Whitaker with Ian Whitelaw
The Horse is an informative gallop through everything to do with the horse: evolution, history, biology, breeds, behavior, training, competition, health, and care—all gathered into an accessible gallery of solid information, essential facts, and fascinating trivia.

Hunter Seat Equitation (Hardcover) by George H. Morris
A classic by a world-renowned teacher and master equestrian--the definitive work on the art of teaching and riding the hunter seat, now updated to include refinements in Morris's insightful program of riding instruction.

The New Encyclopedia of the Horse (Hardcover) by Elwyn Hartley Edwards
Chronicling the history of the horse, this guide encompasses the early domestication of the horse, classical riding styles, as well as a survey of the great stud farms and current international sporting events.

at glance

Group Size

Maximum of 8 to 12

Riding Ability

Advanced Beginner to Advanced riders. The trail and altitudes make this journey physically strenuous.

Equitrekking Travel features horseback riding vacations and exceptional equestrian vacations from around the world inspired by the Equitrekking series hosted by Darley Newman on PBS, Public Television.